Supreme Champion crowned at Meat Products Competition

Eleanor Mackay
· 27 March, 2014

The fifth consecutive National Meat Products Competition, held at this year’s Foodex, was won by Alison Maloney, from Maloney’s Country Butchers & Bakers, Newark.

She was awarded the Supreme Champion of the Day trophy for her traditional hand-trimmed pork pie. Maloney has worked in the industry for over 19 years at her family butchers. Her pork pie has had the same recipe since opening in 1979.

“It’s great to know the standard was so high this year,” said Maloney. “I will definitely be back next year with something new.”

The competition, organised by the National Federation of Meat & Food Traders (NFMFT), saw 300 products judged over 14 categories, including the new ‘Speciality Sausage in a Collagen Casing’ category. This was won by Langfords Welsh Sausage Company, with its Lincolnshire sausage. Meanwhile Craig Finch, of Birmingham-based Craig Finch Butchers, was awarded the Sausage Champion title for his traditional pork sausage.

Richard Stevenson, technical manager at the NFMFT described the standard this year as “exceptionally high”.

John Taylor, NFMFT executive councillor and former president, who officiated the competition added: “The quality of products here today has been high, and our experienced team of judges have been treated to a dazzling array of flavours and textures, once again demonstrating the creative flair and innovation of independent craft butchers.”

Taylor attributed the high standard to the geographical location of the competition. “We’re in the Midlands here, at the heart of some great butchery, with Yorkshire not far away."